Tom Ince has seen his dream return to Liverpool put on hold - because Blackpool are refusing to take Brendan Rodgers' calls.

Rodgers went into the window believing Ince's move back to Anfield was a "done deal", but the Championship club's chairman, Karl Oyston, is playing hardball over the 20-year-old.

It has reached a point that Blackpool will simply not pick up the phone when Liverpool call - a similar tactic to those Oyston used to stop Charlie Adam leaving the club two years ago, forcing the Scot to stay for another six months.

Liverpool were hoping to tie up a £7million deal for Ince - son of their former midfielder Paul - who started his career at Anfield before leaving for Blackpool two years ago.

Swansea have also shown an interest in Ince, and that could drive a bidding war - which would be favourable for Blackpool as Liverpool have a sell-on clause from the original deal that would reduce the money they pay to buy him back.

Meanwhile, Lazio defender Modibo Diakite has turned down a final offer of a new contract - in the hope Liverpool will come in for him.

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Ready to Rome: Defender Diakite is on his way out of Lazio

The 25-year-old is a free agent at the end of the season, and his Rome club want to cash in now rather than lose him for nothing come the summer.

Aston Villa are also watching developments, and it is believed Rodgers has sounded out Diakite's agents.